Ventura edged by Allan Hancock in wire-to-wire battle

The VC men's basketball team dropped a razor-close 78-77 decision against Allan Hancock Wednesday in the Pirates' regular season home finale. Jerimiyah Smith scored 25 points with 11 rebounds and Snookey Wigington posted 23 points with four boards and four assists to lead the effort for the Pirates, who remain alone in first place in the Western State Conference standings with one game left to play.

Ventura controlled the first half behind a balanced attack and strong work on the offensive glass, taking a 40-36 lead into the locker room. The Pirates' interior scoring and second-chance efforts helped offset a cold night from beyond the 3-point arc. Forward Smith set the tone early, scoring 15 points in the first half, attacking the rim and establishing a post presence that Hancock struggled to match in the opening 20 minutes.

The game turned in the second half as the Bulldogs steadily chipped away, outscoring Ventura 42-37 over the final 20 minutes. Ventura continued to generate opportunities with energy on the glass and dribble penetration, but a few key empty trips late allowed AHC to inch in front in the closing seconds.

Smith delivered a standout performance for Ventura, posting a double-double on 8-for-15 shooting while converting 9 of 11 attempts at the free-throw line. Kevin Anigbogu added eight points and nine rebounds and Kam'Ron Cigar also netted eight points. VC shot 28-for-68 (41.2%) from the floor and an efficient 20-for-26 (76.9%) at the stripe, production that kept the contest tight.

The Pirates' work on the boards and in hustle categories nearly made the difference. The Pirates held a 40-39 edge in total rebounds, including 18 offensive rebounds that led to 21 second-chance points. Ventura also scored 44 points in the paint and turned 12 Allan Hancock turnovers into 16 points, using its pressure to create transition chances and short-clock situations.

The Pirates (23-4, 10-1) will close the regular season on Friday Feb. 20 at Oxnard. Tip-off with the Condors is scheduled for 5:00 pm.